Bethenny Frankel credits social media with empowering her to respond to recent criticism from Joy Behar, who commented on her appearance.

“The key difference is that with traditional media, like ‘The View’, you often have the final say because of your position of power — over celebrities and the audience,” Frankel states in an exclusive interview with Page Six’s “Virtual Reali-Tea”.

She explains that public figures used to rely heavily on platforms like “The View” to promote their projects. However, social media has shifted this dynamic, allowing individuals to speak directly to their audiences.

“That era of control is gone. Now, no one has to accept others’ judgments without accountability,” she adds. Frankel, with 3.2 million TikTok followers and 3.9 million on Instagram, promotes her partnership with Heluva Good! Dip while emphasizing the power of new media.

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Frankel, 54, says many people avoid defending themselves out of fear, feeling pressured to stay silent to promote their careers.

She sees social media as a tool to regain her voice and hold others accountable. “Social media gives everyone the chance to express themselves freely,” she asserts.

Earlier this month, Behar accused Frankel of having “fake boobs” after her appearance at the Sports Illustrated Swimsuit Show. Frankel responded with a TikTok to clarify that her breasts are natural and criticized Behar for her unhappiness.

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Frankel reflects on the power shift social media has created, enabling her to speak openly and bypass traditional outlets. “Now, women no longer have to rely on ‘dinosaur’ TV shows to share their stories,” she notes.

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Frankel emphasized her philosophy of embracing joy and self-care. She explains that she underwent a breast lift years ago to help with sagging, a common concern for women with larger chests. “I want to show women my age that we can live happily and confidently,” she says.

Despite her confidence, she expressed sympathy for Behar’s perspective. “Joy doesn’t seem to be living with happiness,” she remarks. “She portrays the older woman as miserable, but I believe women of a certain age can be vibrant and joyful.”

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Frankel concludes by offering a parting message for Behar: “Live happily, be proud of your life, and let women like Joy Behar remind us of what we don’t want to become.”

The controversy ignited earlier when Behar called out Frankel’s appearance, implying her breasts were fake, after Frankel’s runway appearance. Frankel responded confidently, asserting her natural body and criticizing Behar’s unhappiness.

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